Qi Gong and Tai Chi

What is Qigong (气功)?

Qigong is a mind-body-spirit practice that improves one's mental and physical health by integrating posture, movement, breathing technique, self-massage, sound, and focused intent. Qigong opens the flow of energy in meridians used in acupuncture and Chinese medicine. It enhances our ability to feel the Life Force underlying the physical world and to deepen our communication with it.

Ba Duan Jin 八段锦

Ba Duan Jin is one of the most common forms of Chinese Qigong used as exercise. Variously translated as Eight Pieces of Brocade, Eight-Section Brocade, Eight Silken Movements or Eight Silk Weaving, the name of the form generally refers to how the eight individual movements of the form characterize and impart a silken quality (like that of a piece of brocade) to the body and its energy. The Ba Duan Jin is primarily designated as a form of medical Qigong, meant to improve health. This is in contrast to religious or martial forms of Qigong.

Tai Chi 太极拳

Tai Chi is often described as "meditation in motion," but it might well be called "medication in motion." There is growing evidence that this mind-body practice, which originated in China as a martial art, has value in treating or preventing many health problems. You can get started even if you aren't in top shape or in the best of health.

In this low-impact, slow-motion exercise, you move without pausing through a series of motions named after animal actions. As you move, you breathe deeply and naturally, focusing your attention — as in some kinds of meditation — on your bodily sensations.

Tai Chi differs from other types of exercise in several respects. The movements are usually circular and never forced, the muscles are relaxed rather than tensed, the joints are not fully extended or bent, and connective tissues are not stretched. Tai chi can be easily adapted for anyone, from the most fit to people confined to wheelchairs or recovering from surgery.

Tai Chi 24 Forms (太极拳24式）

(Another popular form of Qigong)

1. Commencing Form 起勢
2. Left and Right Part the Wild Horse's Mane 左右野馬分鬃
3. White Crane Spreads Its Wings 白鹤亮翅
4. Left and Right Brush Knee and Push Forward 左右摟膝拗步
5. Playing Lute 手揮琵琶